Portable fire pit

ABSTRACT

A portable fire pit is provided that includes a frame, a support structure, and a mesh. The frame can include a plurality of upwardly extending rods and cross-bars extending between the upwardly extending rods. The support structure can include a plurality of supports having an upper wall, a base, and an aperture sized to receive an upwardly extending rod of the frame. The support structure can extend around a periphery of the frame. The mesh can include a base and a plurality of apertures sized to receive an upwardly extending rod of the frame

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/928,424, filed Mar. 22, 2018, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/619,263, filed Jan. 19, 2018, theentirety of all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Field

Certain embodiments described herein relate generally to fire equipment.

Background

In some campgrounds or other venues, a fire region exists as adesignated spot to build and light a fire. These fire regions mayinclude a fire ring which reduces the likelihood of embers escaping fromthe fire region. However, in some types of campgrounds or other venues,such as those typically frequented by backpackers, hikers, beach-goers,or river rafters, such fire regions do not exist. Moreover, sometimespeople utilizing these types of campgrounds or other venues are requiredto bring their own supplies for containing a fire.

SUMMARY

Certain example embodiments are summarized below for illustrativepurposes. The embodiments are not limited to the specificimplementations recited herein. Embodiments may include several novelfeatures, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirableattributes or which is essential to the embodiments.

In some embodiments, a fire containment system, such as a fire pit, islightweight, easily transportable, and easily assembled, and/or a firecontainment system can allow a user to easily interchange partsdepending on the needs of the user. A portable fire pit may include aframe comprising a plurality of upwardly extending rods, the frame beingconfigured to transition between a collapsed configuration and anexpanded configuration; a support structure extending around a peripheryof the frame, the support structure comprising a plurality of separablesupports, each support having an upper wall, a base, and one or moresupport apertures each sized to receive at least one of the upwardlyextending rods; and a mesh configured to support a fuel source, the meshcomprising a base and one or more mesh apertures each sized to receiveat least one of the upwardly extending rods. When the portable fire pitis assembled, the base of the mesh can comprise a support contactportion having a support contact area and an exposed portion having anexposed area larger than the support contact area. The frame, thesupport structure, and the mesh may each be configured to be stored andtransported by a user as separate components and then assembled by auser into the portable fire pit without tools. The exposed portion maybe in direct, unimpeded communication with an ambient air and beconfigured to permit airflow to the fuel source through at least amajority of the exposed portion.

The system of the preceding paragraph can further comprise one or moreof the following features: the frame further comprises cross-barsextending between the upwardly extending rods; each of the upwardlyextending rods comprises an outer rod and an inner rod, wherein theinner rod is slidably disposed at least partially within the outer rod;the support structure further comprises one or more heat dissipationelements; the heat dissipation elements comprises at least one apertureconfigured to provide air flow to a fuel source; the heat dissipationelements comprises at least one channel in the upper wall, wherein theat least one channel is configured to increase an external surface areaof the upper wall; the mesh comprises a porosity configured to permitairflow to the fuel source and to inhibit particulates from passingthrough the mesh; each of the one or more mesh apertures of the meshcomprises a grommet; the system further comprising a grill grate; thegrill grate comprises one or more mounts configured to couple to theupwardly extending rods; each of the one or more mounts comprises afastener to couple the mount to the upwardly extending rod; the systemfurther comprising a heat shield configured to resist transfer of heatthrough the heat shield; the heat shield comprises a plurality ofmounting components configured to engage at least a portion of theframe.

The system of the preceding paragraph may be utilized in combinationwith a sleeve, wherein the portable fire pit is configured to be storedwithin the sleeve when the portable fire pit is in the collapsedconfiguration.

The system of the preceding paragraph may be utilized in combinationwith an ember containment system, wherein the ember containment systemis configured to retain a fuel source after use.

In some embodiments, a method of enabling the assembly of a portablefire pit, the method may comprise: providing a frame having a collapsedconfiguration and an expanded configuration, the frame comprising aplurality of rods; providing a plurality of support structures eachcomprising one or more support apertures configured to slidably engagewith at least one of the plurality of rods to removably couple thesupport structure to the frame when the frame is in the expandedconfiguration; and providing a mesh comprising one or more meshapertures configured to slidably engage at least one of the plurality ofrods to removably couple the mesh to the frame when the frame is in theexpanded configuration, the mesh being further configured to retain afuel source, the mesh further comprising a frame contact portion and anexposed base, wherein the exposed base is larger than the frame contactportion. The exposed base may be in direct unimpeded communication withan ambient air, the exposed base being configured to permit airflow tothe fuel source through a majority of the exposed base.

The method of the preceding paragraph can further include one or more ofthe following features: the method further comprising providing a heatshield configured to resist transfer of heat through the heat shield,wherein the heat shield is configured to removably attach to at least aportion of the frame; the method further comprising providing a sleeveconfigured to store one or more of the frame, the plurality of supportstructures, and the mesh within the sleeve when the frame is in thecollapsed configuration.

The details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter of thisspecification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and thedescription below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of thesubject matter will become apparent from the description, the drawings,and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Certain embodiments of fire pits, including embodiments of variouscomponents of fire pits, will be discussed in detail with reference tothe following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to similarfeatures throughout. These figures are provided for illustrativepurposes and the embodiments are not limited to the specificimplementations illustrated in the figures. No structure, step, or otherfeature is essential or required.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a portable fire pithaving a frame, a support structure, and a mesh, the fire pit being inan expanded configuration.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the fire pit of FIG. 1 and a sleeve, the firepit being in a collapsed configuration.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the frame of FIG. 1 in an expandedconfiguration.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the frame of FIG. 1 in a collapsedconfiguration.

FIG. 5 is a top-oriented perspective view of a support of the supportstructure of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a bottom-oriented perspective view of a support of the supportstructure of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the frame and supportstructure of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the mesh of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of the fire pit of FIG. 1 with a fuel sourceand fire.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a grill grate.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged, partial view of the grill grate of FIG. 10

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an ember containmentsystem.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the ember containment system ofFIG. 12

FIG. 14 is an embodiment of a method of assembling and using a fire pitand an ember containment system.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame havingtelescoping rods.

FIG. 16 is a top-oriented perspective view of an embodiment of an embercontainment system with a lid being in an open position.

FIG. 17 is a top-oriented perspective view of the ember containmentsystem of FIG. 16, the lid being in a closed position.

FIG. 18 is a top-oriented perspective view of an embodiment of a heatshield.

FIG. 19A is a front-oriented perspective view of an embodiment of aportable fire pit having a heat shield.

FIG. 19B is a bottom-oriented perspective view of the embodiment of aportable fire of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19C is a top-oriented perspective view of the embodiment of aportable fire of FIG. 19A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present specification and drawings provide aspects and features ofthe disclosure in the context of several embodiments of fire containmentsystems, such as but not limited to portable (e.g., pop-up) fire pits,which can support a fire while camping. Accordingly, the embodimentsdescribed herein may be discussed in connection with specific fires andspecific situations, such as camping. However, it is to be understoodthat the features and concepts discussed herein can be applied to othertypes of fires and situations, such as cooking fires for use on a dayouting or in a domicile. In addition, particular features of a fire pitshould not be taken as limiting. Moreover, one or more features of anyone embodiment discussed herein can be used separately or combined withor used instead of one or more features of any other embodiments.

Certain terminology may be used in the following description for thepurpose of reference only, and thus is not intended to be limiting. Forexample, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “upward”, “downward”, “above”,“below”, “top”, “bottom” and similar terms refer to directions in thedrawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “outward”, “inward”,“outer”, “inner”, and “side”, describe the orientation and/or locationof portions of the components or elements within a consistent butarbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to thetext and the associated drawings describing the components or elementsunder discussion. Such terminology may include the words specificallymentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.Similarly, the terms “first”, “second”, and other such numerical termsreferring to structures neither imply a sequence or order unless clearlyindicated by the context. The relative proportions, lengths, and sizesof components shown in the drawings form part of the supportingdisclosure of this application but are not limiting except insofar asexpressly set forth in a claim.

Examples of Fire Pits

FIGS. 1-9 are various views of a fire pit, according to variousembodiments. In particular, unless otherwise noted, reference numeralsin FIGS. 1-9 refer to components that are the same as or generallysimilar to the components in the remaining figures discussed herein. Itwill be understood that the portable fire pit 100 shown in FIGS. 1-9, orany components, features, or steps used therein or associate therewith,can be used with any of the embodiments described and/or contemplatedherein. It will also be understood that any of the embodiments describedand/or contemplated herein can be modified to be used with the portablefire pit 100 shown in FIGS. 1-9.

As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, a portable fire pit 100 cancomprise a lower portion and an upper portion. The upper portion caninclude a fuel support that is configured to support fuel (e.g., acollection of fuel items such as logs, charcoal, wood pieces, etc.)during a burning stage. The fuel support can include a plurality ofsides which form a perimeter of the fuel support. The sides of the fuelsupport can form any shape, such as a rectangle, square, triangle, etc.The lower portion can be configured to elevate the upper portion above aground surface. For example, in some embodiments, the lower portion canbe configured to elevate the upper portion above a ground surface to alevel that is: (a) at least about one-third, one-quarter, or one-half ofthe length of one of the sides of the fuel support; (b) configured toposition the center of gravity of the fully assembled portable fire pit100, with and/or without fuel, at or below about the level of the bottomsurface of the upper portion; (c) at least about twice as high as thevertical thickness of the upper portion (the vertical distance betweenthe bottom and top of the upper portion); and/or (d) at least about 8inches or at least about 15 inches. The lower portion and the upperportion can be separable from each other by a user without the use oftools, and each can comprise a retracted or collapsed position and adeployed or expanded position.

The lower portion can comprise a plurality of rods that areinterconnected to form a support structure. Any or all of the rods canbe generally cylindrical. In some embodiments, a plurality of peripheralrods (e.g., at least 3 rods or at least 4 rods) can be orientedsubstantially parallel with each other in both the retracted and thedeployed positions of the lower portion. In the deployed position, oneor more of the peripheral rods can be oriented substantially verticallyalong an outer periphery of the lower portion and/or at one or morecorners of the deployed lower portion. A plurality of one or moreadditional rods can extend between the peripheral supporting rods tohelp orient and/or support the peripheral rods in the substantiallyvertical orientation of the deployed lower portion. In the deployedposition, the lower portion can form a hollow periphery having an emptycentral region without interior structure, in some embodiments. Theperiphery of the lower portion can be substantially unobstructed, suchthat a majority of the peripheral boundary (e.g., at least about 50% orat least about 75%) of the lower portion is open and does not comprisewall structure or any other obstacles, permitting air to freely flowfrom the outside to the inside of the lower portion.

The upper portion can be configured to removably attach to an upperregion of the lower portion. For example, the upper portion can beconfigured to removably attach to a plurality of the peripheral supportrods in an overlapping arrangement (e.g., such that an upper region ofthe lower portion can overlap with the upper portion or even that thetopmost part of the lower portion can extend vertically farther than thetopmost part of the upper portion). In some embodiments, the upperportion can comprise a plurality of separable portions, including aplurality of guard portions and a fuel support. The plurality ofseparable portions can be independently attachable to the lower portionto form the upper portion. The fuel support can comprise a generallyplanar surface in a fuel-supporting region configured to be generallyhorizontal with respect to the ground in the deployed configuration ofthe upper portion. The fuel support can comprise a plurality of openingsthat are configured to be positioned below the fuel-supporting regionand between the upper portion and the lower portion of the fire pit andthat are sufficiently large to permit or encourage air to enter frombelow, moving upwardly within the hollow interior or central region ofthe lower portion, into the fuel-supporting region of the upper portionfor the fire. The openings of the fuel support can be sufficiently smallto resist the passage of ash, embers, and/or other debris that is largerthan about the size of typical particles of powder and/or sanddownwardly from the fuel support into the hollow interior or centralregion of the lower portion. In some embodiments, the vertical thickness(e.g., the vertical distance from the lowest point to the highest point)of the upper portion can be less than the vertical thickness of thelower portion.

In some embodiments, the fire pit can be configured to safely andsecurely receive fuel items in the upper portion to a vertical levelthat is at least as high as the topmost part of the upper portion and/orat least as high at the topmost part of the lower portion. In someembodiments, the fire pit can be configured to safely and securelysupport fuel in a burning stage such that the flames of fire emanatingfrom the fuel can extend vertically upward from the fire support to apoint that is higher than or at least as high as an upper edge of theguard portion of the upper portion, or at least as high as the topmostpart of the upper portion, or at least as high as the topmost part ofthe lower portion. In some embodiments, the fire pit does not include atop cover or enclosure or other substantial upper obstacle in order topermit the fire to extend vertically a substantial distance beyond theupper end of the fire pit.

As illustrated, in some embodiments the outer peripheral lateralboundary of the upper portion is about the same as the outer peripherallateral boundary of the lower portion. For example, the width and lengthof the sides or perimeter or peripheral boundary of the fire support inthe upper portion can be about the same as the width and length of thesides or perimeter or peripheral boundary of the lower portion. Any orall components of the fire pit can be made of a metal, such as steel oraluminum.

With reference first to FIG. 1, an embodiment of a pop-up fire pit 100is illustrated. The pop-up fire pit 100 can include a lower portioncomprising a collapsible frame 120, and an upper portion comprising aguard portion in the form of support structure 140, and/or a fuelsupport in the form of a mesh 160. The pop-up fire pit 100 can supportfuel for a fire source, such as wood and charcoal, on the mesh 160 whichis positioned above the ground surface. In some implementations, thepop-up fire pit 100 can support at least about 200 pounds on the mesh160. In some embodiments, the pop-up fire pit 100 can weigh at leastabout 1.5 pounds and/or less than or equal to about 6 pounds. In someinstances, the ratio between the weight of the supported fuel and theweight of the pop-up fire pit 100 and can be at least about 30:1 and/orless than or equal to about 140:1; however, it is to be understood thatthis ratio can be higher or lower as desired. Since backpackerstypically work with 35-40 pounds in their packs, the light weight of thepop-up fire pit 100 can be particularly beneficial since it does nottake up a significant portion of the backpacker's weight allotment. Thiscan allow the backpacker to carry other goods for hiking or camping,such as food and water, or reduce the overall weight of the backpack forcomfort.

In the expanded or deployed configuration, the pop-up fire pit 100 canhave a square footprint with a width W_(E) of at least about 10 inchesand/or less than or equal to about 30 inches, at least about 15 inchesand/or less than or equal to about 28 inches, of at least about 20inches and/or less than or equal to about 26 inches, about 22 inches,any sub-ranges within these ranges, or other widths as desired. Thewidth W_(E) of the pop-up fire pit 100 can enhance stability of thepop-up fire pit 100 and thereby reduce the likelihood of tipping.Stability of the pop-up fire pit 100 can be further enhanced forembodiments with a lower center of gravity. In some embodiments, thepop-up fire pit 100 can provide a fire pit with a usable area of atleast about 300 in² and/or less than or equal to about 700 in². This canallow a camper to maintain a relatively large campfire.

With reference next to FIG. 2, the pop-up fire pit 100 is illustrated ina collapsed or retracted configuration for storage and transport. Thepop-up fire pit 100 can be stored within a sleeve 180 to transport thepop-up fire pit 100. In the collapsed configuration, the pop-up fire pit100 can have a height H of at least about 18 inches and/or less than orequal to about 30 inches, at least about 20 inches and/or less than orequal to about 28 inches, at least about 22 inches and/or less than orequal to about 26 inches, or about 24 inches, any sub-ranges withinthese ranges, or other heights as desired. The width We of the collapsedpop-up fire pit 100 can be at least about 3 inches and/or less than orequal to about 8 inches, at least about 4 inches and/or less than orequal to about 7 inches, at least about 5 inches and/or less than orequal to about 6 inches, or about 6 inches, any sub-ranges within theseranges, or other widths as desired. The compact form factor or shape ofthe pop-up fire pit 100 can facilitate carrying and transport of thepop-up fire pit 100 to and from the camping grounds.

With reference next to FIGS. 3 and 4, the lower portion or frame 120 ofthe pop-up fire pit 100 is illustrated in an expanded or deployedconfiguration (FIG. 3) and a collapsed or retracted configuration (FIG.4). The frame 120 can include one or more vertical rods 122 and one ormore cross-bars 124, 126 extending between the vertical rods 122. Asshown, the frame 120 includes four rods 122 with two cross-bars 124, 126extending between rods 122. The one or more cross-bars can be coupledtogether via a pivot 128. In some embodiments, the rods 122 and/or thecross-bars 124, 126 can be formed from a metal, such as stainless steelor aluminum; however, it is to be understood that these components canbe formed from other types of materials as noted herein. In someembodiments, the rods 122 and/or cross-bars 124, 126 can be coated witha heat-resistant material and/or a thermally insulating material, suchas a high heat paint, powder coated, and/or ceramic coated. In someembodiments, the rods 122 and/or cross bars 124, 126 can be anodized.The rods 122 and/or the cross-bars 124, 126 can be hollow to facilitateheat dissipation. For example, in some implementations, the rods 122and/or the cross-bars 124, 126 can be handled by a person withoutprotective equipment within about 3 to 5 minutes after the pop-up firepit 100 is used for a campfire. This can facilitate disassembly anddisposal of ash and embers shortly after the camper extinguishes thefire.

The rods 122 can include a foot 130 mounted at or proximate a lower endof the rods 122. As shown, one end of each of the cross-bars 124, 126 isrotatably coupled to the foot 130. By mounting the cross-bars 124, 126to the foot 130, the cross-bars would be mounted near a ground surfacethereby enhancing the overall stability of the frame 120. A second endof each of the cross-bars 124, 126 can be rotatably coupled to a mount132. As shown, the mount 132 can be slideable relative to the rods 122to allow the second ends of each of the cross-bars 124, 126 to moverelative to the rods 122. This can allow the frame 120 to transitionbetween the expanded configuration and the collapsed configuration. Therods 122 can include a stop 134 which limits travel of the mounts 132.The stop 134 can be positioned such that, in the expanded configuration,the mounts 132 are positioned between about 4 to about 6 inches from anupper end of the rods 122. In some embodiments, the foot 130, mount 132,and/or stop 134 can be formed from a metal, such as stainless steel oraluminum, and/or a polymer, such as nylon; however, it is to beunderstood that these components can be formed from other types ofmaterials as noted herein. Although the mounts 132 are shown slidingvertically along the rods 122, it is to be understood that otherconfigurations can be utilized. For example, the mounts 132 can bepositioned on other structures of the frame 120 such as cross-bars 124,126. The mounts 132 can be oriented such that the slide in anon-vertical direction.

Although the rods 122 are shown as having a monolithic structure, it isto be understood that the rods 122 can be formed from two or moreseparate pieces. In some embodiments, the rods 122 can have a lowercomponent and an upper component which are movable relative to eachother. This can beneficially allow a user to reduce the height of therods 122 when the pop-up fire pit is in the expanded configuration. Insome embodiments, the height of the rods 122 can be reduced by about afactor of at least about 1.5 and/or less than or equal to about 2. Forexample, in some embodiments, the height of the rods 122 can be reducedfrom between about 24 inches to about 13 inches. As shown in FIG. 15,the pop-up fire pit 100 a can include a frame 120 a having an upper orouter rod 122 a and a lower or inner rod 122 b in a telescopingarrangement with the outer rod 122 a slideable over the inner rod 122 b.Foot 130 can be coupled to the inner rod 122 b and the mount 132 can becoupled to the outer rod 122 a. This can allow the foot 130 and mount132 to move relative to each other and allow the frame 120 a totransition between collapsed and expanded configurations.

In some embodiments, the outer rod 122 a and the inner rod 122 b maycomprise an interaction portion configured to provide a snug, tight,telescoping, and/or non-rotating interaction between the rods 122 a, 122b, such as one or more ribs corresponding to one or more slots. Forexample, an inner surface of the outer rod 122 a may include one or moreribs configured to engage one or more slots located on an outer surfaceof the inner rod 122 b, or vice versa. The one or more ribs of the outerrod 122 a can be configured to interact with the one or more slot of theinner rod 122 b, such as to facilitate the attachment to and/orretention between the outer rod 122 a and the inner rod 1221 b. Forexample, in some embodiments, the one or more ribs can be configured tointeract with the one or more slots to advantageously prevent or resistthe relative rotation between the outer rod 122 a and the inner rod 122b. The term “ribs” referred to herein are structures that are raised orextend outward from a surface. The term “slots” refer to structures thatextend below a surface or are positioned between two ribs and are at alower level than the ribs. The ribs and/or slots can have any suitableform and/or configuration in any devices.

In some embodiments, the one or more ribs and slots can extend along anylength between a first end and a second end of the outer rod 122 a andthe inner rod 122 b, respectively. In certain embodiments, the one ormore ribs and slots may extend across the entire length or across theentire or virtually the entire length of the outer rod 122 a and theinner rod 122 b, respectively. The size, shape, and/or position of theone or more ribs and slots can be configured to inhibit rotation of theinner rod 122 b relative to the outer rod 122 a as the inner rod 122 bis positioned within and/or is sliding axially along the outer rod 122a. In some embodiments, the one or more ribs and slots can comprise anysuitable number, such as for example, 1 to 6 or more ribs and slots,although any suitable combination and arrangement can be used. While theone or more ribs and slots are described in the context of the portablefire pit shown in FIG. 15, it will be understood that the one or moreribs and slots may be used with any of the embodiments of a fire pitdescribed and/or contemplated herein.

With reference next to FIGS. 5 and 6, an embodiment of a support 142forming part of the support structure 140 is illustrated. The support142 can include an upper wall 144 and a base 146. As shown in theillustrated embodiment, the upper wall 144 can extend generallyvertically, and the base 146 can extend generally horizontally in thedeployed position of the fire pit. The height of the upper wall 144 canbe substantially larger than the width of the base 146, as illustrated.The upper wall 144 can function as a fence or guard which inhibitsembers from laterally escaping the pop-up fire pit 100, for example, dueto wind or other disturbances. The upper wall 144 can beneficiallyreflect heat back towards the fire to more efficiently maintain a firewithin the pop-up fire pit 100. In some embodiments, the upper wall 144can be at least about 2 inches and/or less than or equal to about 5inches, at least about 3 inches and/or less than or equal to about 4inches, or at least about 3.5 inches, any sub-range within these ranges,or other lengths as desired. The base 146 can extend generallyhorizontally from the upper wall 144.

The base 146 can include two mounting regions 148 with apertures 150.The spacing between the mounting regions 148 can match or correspond tothe spacing of the rods 122 when the frame 120 is in the expandedconfiguration. In some embodiments, the mounting regions 148 can bereinforced to enhance the structural integrity. The base 146 can supporta mesh 160 or other structure placed on the base 146. This canbeneficially increase the amount of weight the mesh 160 or structure cansupport. In some embodiments, the base 146 can be between about 1 inchto about 4 inches, between about 2 inches to about 3 inches, about 2.5inches, any sub-range within these ranges, or other lengths as desired.While two mounting regions 148 are shown, it is to be understood thatthe base 146 can include fewer or greater numbers of mounting regions148.

The support 142 can comprises one or more elements configured tofacilitate heat dissipation from the fuel supporting region when theportable fire pit 100 contains a fire. As identified in the embodimentshown in FIG. 6, in some instances, the heat dissipation elements cancomprise one or more small apertures 152 within the support 142. Forexample, as shown a majority of the support 142 (e.g., at least about50% or at least about 75% or at least about 90%) may be a solid (e.g.,not open or vented) surface, while also including various apertures 152located throughout the upper wall 144 and/or base 146 of the support142. The apertures 152 can beneficially increase the rate of heatdissipation and/or provide lateral air flow for the fire. While the oneor more apertures 152 are described in the context of the portable firepit shown in FIG. 6, it will be understood that the one or moreapertures 152 may be used with any of the embodiments of a fire pitdescribed and/or contemplated herein.

In some embodiments, the heat dissipation elements of the support 142can include various surface shapes, textures, and/or treatments tofacilitate the transfer of heat from the fuel supporting region. Forexample, as illustrated in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 19A-19C, thesurface shapes, textures, and/or treatments 143 may comprise one or moreheat-radiating or heat-dissipating structures such as ribbing, slots,recesses, grooves, channels, and/or protrusions along the upper wall 144and/or base 146 of the support 146. The surface textures and/ortreatments 143 may be configured to provide the support 146 with anincreased surface area (e.g., when compared to a support 146 that doesnot include said surface textures and/or treatment). In someembodiments, the increased surface area can be configured to increasethe amount of interface between the support 146 and the surroundingambient air, thereby increasing heat dissipation. The surface texturesand/or treatments 143 may be utilized in combination with or in lieu ofapertures 152, discussed herein. The support 142 can be formed from anextruded metal such as aluminum having a thickness of at least about 1and/or less than or equal to about 3 millimeters. The mounting regions148 can then be cut from the extruded aluminum, such as via stamping. Itis to be understood that the support 142 can be formed via any othermethods and/or materials, including any others described herein. Whilethe surface textures and/or treatments 143 are described in the contextof the portable fire pit shown in FIGS. 19A-19C, it will be understoodthat the surface textures and/or treatments 143 may be used with any ofthe embodiments of a fire pit described and/or contemplated herein.

While the above-referenced figures illustrate embodiments of the heatdissipation elements comprising various features (e.g., apertures and/orsurface textures) within the support 142, it is understood that theshape and/or size may vary depending on the number of heat dissipationelements included on the support 146. The size, shape, and/or positionof the heat dissipation elements can be configured to facilitate thedissipation of heat.

With reference next to FIG. 7, the pop-up fire pit 100 is shown in apartially assembled state with the lower portion attached to a part ofthe upper portion (e.g., the support structure 140 mounted to the frame120). Individual supports 142 are slid along or past the rods 122 untilthey sit upon abutments or mounts (not shown). As shown in theillustrated embodiment, the number of supports 142 matches the number ofvertical rods 122 and extends between each set of vertical rods 122. Byattaching four supports 142 to the four rods 122, the supports 142 forma support structure 140 which extends around the periphery of the frame120. The supports 142 can help provide a rigid framework which inhibitsindividual rods 122 from flexing or moving relative to other rods 122during use, especially while a fire is burning. This beneficiallyenhances the structural integrity of the frame 120. Although foursupports 142 are shown, it is to be understood that a fewer or greaternumber of supports 142 can be used. Moreover, it is to be understoodthat additional supports can be added. For example, the supportstructure 140 can include one or more supports extending diagonallyacross the frame 120. The diagonally extending supports may omit theupper wall 144 so that the supports do not interfere with the mesh 160.

With reference next to FIG. 8, an embodiment of a fuel support in theform of a mesh 160 is illustrated. As shown, the mesh can include acentral region or base 162 which can support fuel for the fire. One ormore sides of the periphery 164 of the base 162 can be reinforced, orcan be made of a different material or materials than the base 162(e.g., a more rigid or more solid material than the base 162), or can bethicker than the base 162, to resist or reduce the likelihood of tearingor sagging. The base 162 can include a plurality (e.g., at least threeor at least four) mounting regions 166 with apertures 168. The spacingbetween the mounting regions 166 can match or correspond to the spacingof the rods 122 when the frame 120 is in the expanded configuration. Insome embodiments, the mounting regions 166 can be reinforced to enhancethe structural integrity of the mounting regions 166 and/or to resisttearing. For example, the mounting regions 166 can include a grommet.

In some embodiments, the mesh 160 can be formed from one or more metals,such as steel (e.g., 304 stainless steel), one or more polymers, one ormore composites, a combination of these materials, or other suitablematerials, including one or more materials described elsewhere herein.In some embodiments, the mesh 160 can be a stainless steel woven mesh,#40, with a 010 wire size. The porosity of the mesh 160 can be chosen toallow substantial airflow through the mesh 160. In some embodiments, themesh 160 is configured to permit unimpeded airflow to a fire throughoutan entire exposed underside surface area of the mesh 160. The exposedunderside surface area of the mesh 160 is the region of the underside ofthe mesh that is not in direct contact with the support structure 140 orframe 120 or other structure holding up or attaching the mesh to thefire pit (e.g., when the fire pit 100 is assembled). In someembodiments, as shown, the entire exposed underside surface area of themesh 160 is in direct, unimpeded fluid communication with ambient air,laterally through the frame 120, vertically from the ground up to theexposed underside surface area of the mesh 160, and/or vertically fromthe heat shield 600 (see FIG. 19A) to the exposed underside surface areaof the mesh 160. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 19 a,whatever structure may exist laterally (e.g., the rods 122 or the frame120) from or underneath the mesh 160 has more or substantially more areaencompassing open, free-flowing air passages than area encompassingsolid or air-flow-restricting regions. In some embodiments, the closestdistance from the exposed underside surface area of the mesh 160 to thesubstantially planar and substantially horizontal heat shield, ifpresent, can be at least as large as about a majority of the distancefrom the ground or the bottom of the rods 122 of the frame 120 to theclosest exposed underside surface area of the mesh 160. As illustratedin FIG. 9, the free flow of ambient air into the entire exposedunderside surface of the mesh 160 is believed to enable a fire to accessoxygen more readily and therefore burn fuel more thoroughly and at ahigher temperature, and to permit the air currents and smoke to flowmore uniformly and more evenly upwardly from the fire. In someembodiments, as shown in FIG. 9, the exposed portion of the mesh 160that is not in direct contact with the support structure 140 or frame120 can be illustrated by width E. The exposed portion of the mesh 160,in some instances, can comprise a larger area than the portion of themesh 160 in direct contact with the supports 142. For example, theexposed portion of the mesh 160 may comprise at least 50% of the mesh.In some embodiments, the exposed portion of the mesh 160 comprises atleast 80% (e.g., 85%, 90%, 95%, etc.) of the mesh 160 when the fire pit100 is fully assembled. The mesh 160 being configured to provide airflowto a fuel source along a majority, or entirety, of the mesh 160 mayadvantageously permit for a high rate of combustion.

The porosity of the mesh can be chosen to permit airflow, while alsoinhibiting or preventing particulates, such as burnt embers or ash, frompassing through the mesh 160 and dropping downward below the mesh. Byinhibiting or preventing particulates from passing through the mesh 160,the pop-up fire pit 100 can be used in campgrounds with strict rulesregarding campfire ember and ash. Such campgrounds may require that thecamper retain all ember and ash for disposal at another location.

With reference next to FIG. 9, an embodiment of the fire pit 100 with afuel source 190 and fire 192 is illustrated schematically. The fire pit100 can beneficially maintain the fire 192 at a high burn rate as aresult of the structure, arrangement, and/or orientation of the frame120, support structure 140, and mesh 160.

As shown, a fuel source 190, such as wood or coals, is supported by themesh 160 above the ground surface 194. In some embodiments, the distancebetween the mesh 160 and the ground surface 194 can be at least about 6inches and/or less than or equal to about 14 inches. For example, thedistance between the mesh 160 when supporting the fuel source 190 andthe ground surface 194 may be substantially or nearly the same orsimilar to the distance between the base of the support system 140 andthe ground surface 194. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 9and 19A (for example), the mesh 160 is substantially or generally planarafter assembly but before fuel is positioned on the upper surface of themesh 160 (or in some embodiments even after fuel is positioned on theupper surface of the mesh 160). In some embodiments, a lowest surface ofthe mesh 160 in the assembled configuration of the fire pit 100 can bepositioned higher than a majority of the vertical height of the rods 122and/or the frame 120. In some embodiments, after assembly of the firepit 100 but before fuel is positioned on the mesh 160, the bottom-mostor lowest surface on the mesh can be positioned above or generallyvertically even with the highest point where the mesh 160 contacts thestructure supporting the mesh (e.g., the one or more rods 122 and/or theframe 120). By way of another example, the mesh 160 when supporting thefuel source 190 may reside entirely above the cross-bars (not shown)when the fire pit 100 is fully assembled. The location of the mesh 160advantageously prevents any structure (e.g. the ground surface 194,frame 120, etc.) from impeded airflow to the fuel source 190. Since anairflow 196 a passing through the frame 120 is substantially unimpededdue to the compact structure of rods 122 and cross-bars (not shown), asubstantial amount of airflow 196 a can pass through the frame 120 andthe mesh 160 to support a high rate of combustion. In some embodiments,as discussed, the mesh 160 may permit airflow to the fuel source 190through a majority, or entirety, of the mesh 160. The peripheral areabelow the mesh 160, such as the surface area of an outer peripheralprojection of the fire pit 100 below the mesh 160, can be substantiallyunimpeded by components of the frame 120 and/or the support structure140. In some embodiments, the peripheral area can be at least about 70%open, at least about 80% open, at least about 90% open, or at leastabout 95% open. Moreover, since the upper side of the fire pit 100 isalso substantially open, a substantial amount of airflow 196 b can reachthe fire 192 further supporting a high rate of combustion.

The support structure 140, extending around a periphery of the fuelsource 190, can beneficially radiate and/or reflect heat 198 backtowards the fuel source. This can beneficially maintain hightemperatures near the fuel source 190 to maintain higher rates ofcombustion. Moreover, the support structure 140 can inhibit or preventwind from reaching the fuel source 190 and possibly reducing the rate ofcombustion.

Examples of Grill Grates

FIGS. 10 and 11 are various views of a grill grate 200, according tosome embodiments. In particular, FIG. 10 is a front perspective view ofa grill grate 200, and FIG. 11 is an enlarged, partial view of the grillgrate 200 of FIG. 10. It will be understood that the features describedwith reference to the grill grate 200 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 can beused with any portable fire pit embodiment described and/or contemplatedherein. For example, any one of the portable fire pits disclosed hereincan be modified to function with the grill grate 200, as shown anddescribed with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11.

The pop-up fire pit 100 can include additional components to enhance theversatility of the pop-up fire pit 100. For example, with reference toFIGS. 10 and 11, the pop-up fire pit can include a grill grate 200 forpreparing food. The grill grate 200 can include a grate 210 having aplurality of bars 212, 214 forming a grilling surface. The grill grate200 can include one or more mounts 220, such as stanchions, for couplingto the rods 122 of the frame 120. The number of mounts 220 can match thenumber of rods 122 of the frame 120. In some embodiments, the mounts 220are hollow with an opening along the lower end 222 sized to receive therods 122. The grill grate 200 can be attached to the frame 122 byaligning each of the mounts 220 with the rods 122 and sliding the mounts220 over the rods 122.

To maintain the grill grate 200 at a desired position along the rods122, the upper ends 224 of mounts 220 can be closed so that the upperends 224 engage and rest upon the upper ends of the rods 122. In someembodiments, the upper ends 224 of mounts 220 can be open and the mounts220 can include a mechanism, such as fasteners, for tightening themounts 220 around the rod 122. It is to be understood that the pop-upfire pit 100 can include other components. For example, the pop-up firepit 100 can include a shelf (not shown) attachable to one or more of therods 120. In some implementations, the shelf can be used to set food,cooking utensils, or spices for cooking on the grill grate 200.

Examples of Heat Shields

FIGS. 18-19C are various views of a heat shield 600, according to someembodiments. In particular, FIG. 18 is a top-oriented perspective viewof an embodiment of a heat shield 600. FIG. 19A is a front-orientedperspective view of an embodiment of a portable fire pit 100 bcomprising a heat shield 600, and FIGS. 19B and 19C are abottom-oriented perspective view and a top-oriented perspective view,respectively, of the portable fire pit 100 b. Unless otherwise noted,reference numerals in FIGS. 19A-19C refer to components that are thesame as or generally similar to the components in the remaining figuresdiscussed herein. It will be understood that the features described withreference to the heat shield 600 shown in FIGS. 18-19C can be used withany portable fire pit embodiment described and/or contemplated herein.For example, any one of the portable fire pits disclosed herein can bemodified to function with the heat shield 600, as shown and describedwith reference to FIGS. 18-19C.

With reference to FIG. 18, an embodiment of a heat shield 600 isillustrated. As shown, the heat shield 600 can include a central regionor base 610. The base 610 can be configured to resist or substantiallyprevent the transfer of heat through the heat shield 600. As describedherein and illustrated in FIGS. 19A-19C, the heat shield 600 may beplaced beneath a fuel supporting region of a portable fire pit andconfigured to resist or substantially prevent the transfer of heat froma fire within the fuel supporting region to the ground or othersupporting surface below that supports the portable fire pit. Byinhibiting or preventing heat from passing through the heat shield 600,a portable fire pit including the heat shield 600 can be used incampgrounds with strict rules regarding scorching and/or burning thecampground floor. Such campgrounds may require that the camper avoid theuse of fire pits that may cause damage and/or affect the surroundingfoliage. In some embodiments, the heat shield 600 can permit the fuelsupporting region of a fire pit to be located closer to the ground asthe heat shield 600 resists or prevents the transfer of heat from thefire to the ground. Providing for a lower fuel supporting region, forexample, advantageously allows the fire pit to contain a lower center ofgravity, and as such, increases the stability of the fire pit. By way ofanother example, a lower fuel supporting region can place the fire at acomfortable level for a user to provide a more comfortable experience.

In some embodiments, one or more sides of the periphery 612 of the base610 can be reinforced, or can be made of a different material ormaterials than the base 610 (e.g., a more rigid or more solid materialthan the base 162), or can be thicker than the base 610, to resist orreduce the likelihood of tearing or sagging.

The heat shield 600 can include a plurality (e.g., at least three or atleast four) mounting components 620. The mounting components 620 can beutilized to attach the heat shield 600 to one or more portions (e.g.,the vertical rods, cross-bars, and/or pivot) of any portable fire pitdisclosed herein. For example, the mounting components 620 may compriseone or more attachment devices, such as hooks (as shown in FIG. 18) thatare sized to engage at least a portion of a support structure of aportable fire pit. The hooks, in some instances, may be affixed tovarious portions of the heat shield 600 through various means (e.g., oneor more adhesives and/or straps). A spacing between the mountingcomponents 620 can match or correspond to the spacing of vertical rods122 and/or cross-bars 124, 126 of a frame 120 in the expandedconfiguration. In some embodiments, the mounting components 620 can bereinforced to enhance the structural integrity of the mountingcomponents 620 and/or to resist tearing.

The heat shield 600 can be formed from any suitable non-flammable and/orinsulation material configured to resist or prevent substantial heatflow through the heat shield 600. With reference to FIGS. 19A-19C, thebase 610 can be designed to be positioned underneath a fuel supportingregion of a portable fire pit, as described herein. At least a portionof the base 610 can be formed from one or more materials which aregenerally heat resistant and/or insulating. For example, as shown in theillustrated embodiment of FIGS. 19A-19C, a top side of the base 610 isintended to be positioned under a fire, and a bottom side of the base610 faces in the opposite direction from the top side and is intended tobe positioned below the fire but facing away from the fire. At least thetop side of the base 610 extending below a fuel source and/or fire, canbeneficially radiate and/or reflect heat back towards the fuel sourceand/or radially outwardly in a direction away from the ground floor.This can beneficially maintain high temperatures near the fuel source190 to maintain higher rates of combustion. Moreover, the heat shield600 can inhibit or prevent excessive heat from reaching the ground floorand possibly scorching a campground floor.

The bottom side and/or the top side of the base 610 can be formed from agenerally heat or thermally resistant material. For example, either orboth of the bottom side and the top can be made of material(s) and/orformed in such a way that they will not melt or burn or emit appreciableamounts of vapor or smoke (especially harmful types of vapor or smoke)when exposed to temperatures within the range normally encountered in astandard fire used for human warmth and/or cooking, such as awood-burning fire.

In some embodiments, the base 610 is a composite made of two or morematerials. Since the top side will generally encounter much highertemperatures than the bottom side, the top side can have a higher heatreflectivity than the bottom side. For example, in some embodiments, thetop side can be made of material(s) and/or formed in such a way that itsheat reflectivity is sufficient to reflect a majority of the heat energyemitted downward from a burning fire on the fuel support, and/or not tomelt or burn or emit appreciable amounts of vapor or smoke when exposedto temperatures within the range normally encountered in a standard fireused for human warmth and/or cooking, while the bottom side can be madeof different material(s) and/or formed in such a way that its heatconductivity is lower than the heat conductivity of the top side, and/ornot to melt or burn or emit appreciable amounts of vapor or smoke whenexposed to the heat transmitted from the lower face of the top side tothe upper face of the bottom side (where the top side and the bottomside interface) when the top side is exposed to such a fire. In someinstances, the base 610 may comprise a combination of a thermallyresistant polymer and/or a silica-based material, and a metal. Forexample, the bottom side can be composed of fiberglass or silicone andthe top side can comprise an aluminum coating.

In some embodiments, both the bottom and top sides can be made ofmaterial(s) and/or formed in such a way that heat conductivity of thecombined materials is very low. For example, in the bottom side and/orthe top side, when a particular region of the base 610 encounters a hightemperature, it can resist transferring such high temperature laterallyto adjacent portions of the base 610 and/or it can resist transferringsuch high temperature from a top face to a bottom face. For example, insome embodiments, the temperature of a lateral region and/or a bottomface that is adjacent to the top face (e.g. when the top face is closerto or closest to a fire) can be less than or equal to aboutthree-quarters or less than or equal to about one-half of thetemperature of the top face.

While certain materials have been described in connection with the heatshield 600, it is to be understood that the components of any heatshield may be formed of any of many different types of materials orcombinations. For example, the components may be formed of: rubbers(synthetic and/or natural) and/or other like materials; glasses (such asfiberglass) carbon-fiber, aramid-fiber, any combination thereof, and/orother like materials; polymers such as thermoplastics (such as ABS,Fluoropolymers, Polyacetal, Polyamide; Polycarbonate, Polyethylene,Polysulfone, and/or the like), thermosets (such as Epoxy, PhenolicResin, Polyimide, Polyurethane, Silicone, and/or the like), anycombination thereof, and/or other like materials; composites and/orother like materials; metals, such as zinc, magnesium, titanium, copper,iron, steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel,aluminum, any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; alloys,such as aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, magnesium alloy, copper alloy,any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; any other suitablematerial; and/or any combination thereof.

As illustrated in FIGS. 19A-19C, the heat shield 600 may be configuredto attach to the portable fire pit 100 b through use of the selectivelydetachable mounting components 620. The mounting components 620 may beconfigured to engage various portions of the frame 120 to be positionedbelow a fire. For example, the mounting components 620 can be mountedalong the rods 122. As shown, each of the mounting components 620 isremovably coupled to a corresponding rod 122. By mounting the heatshield 600 to the rods 122, the heat shield 600 would be mounted nearthe ground surface thereby enhancing the overall prevention of heattransfer to the floor. As shown, the mounting components 620 can beslideable relative to the rods 122 to adjust the height of the heatshield 600 relative to the ground floor and the fire. This can allow auser to determine the optimum height of the heat shield 600 based on thesize and location of the fire. While the mounting components 620 areillustrated as engaging the rods 122, it will be understood by onehaving skill in the art that the mounting components 620 and heat shield600 may be configured to engage any other portion of the frame 120(e.g., the crossbars 124, 126 and/or pivot 128). As shown in FIG. 19A,in some embodiments, one or more of the crossbars 124, 126 and/or one ormore of the rods 122 can be affixed or attached to each other orconfigured to rotatably pivot or connect to each other with one or moreflat surfaces of such components in contact with each other, providing astable connection.

The portable fire pit 100 b, in some embodiments, can include one ormore stops 170 which limit the position of the heat shield 600. Themounting components 620 may rest upon the stops 170 to prevent the heatshield 600 from sliding down along the rods 122. The stops 170 can bepositioned such that, in the expanded configuration, the heat shield 600is positioned between about 1 to about 6 inches from the ground floor.In some embodiments, the stops 170 can be formed from a metal, such asstainless steel or aluminum, and/or a polymer, such as a plastic ornylon; however, it is to be understood that these components can beformed from other types of materials as noted herein. The stops 170 canbe oriented to slide in a non-vertical direction. This may permit a userto adjust the height of the heat shield 600. Although the stops 170 areshown as slideable vertically along the rods 122, it is to be understoodthat other configurations can be utilized. For example, the stops 170can be positioned on other structures of the frame 120 such ascross-bars 124, 126.

As shown and described, the heat shield 600 is supported above theground floor or other supporting surface. In some embodiments, thedistance between the heat shield 600 and the ground floor can be atleast about 1 inch and/or less than or equal to about 6 inches. The heatshield 600 can be sized and configured not to substantially impedeairflow passing underneath the frame 120. For example, the heat shield600 can be positioned at least about 4 inches or at least about 6 inchesbelow the fuel support, and/or positioned vertically further from thefuel support than a majority of the distance from the fuel support tothe ground floor or other supporting surface. Accordingly, the heatshield 600 may permit substantial air flow to the fuel supporting regionand provide for proper support a high rate of combustion.

Examples of Ember Containment Systems

With reference next to FIGS. 12 and 13, an embodiment of an embercontainment system 300 is illustrated. The ember containment system 300can include a body 310 having a plurality of walls 312 defining a cavity320 in which materials, such as embers from the fire pit 100, can bestored. The ember containment system 300 can include a lid 330 toprevent the materials contained therein from escaping from the system300 during transport. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 330 can behinged to one of the walls 312 of the body 310; however, it is to beunderstood that the lid 330 can be wholly separate from the body 310.

One or more of the walls 312 defining the cavity 320 can have amulti-layer construction to reduce transmission of heat from the cavity320. As shown, in some embodiments, the walls 312 can include an outerlayer 314, an inner layer 316, and an intermediate layer 318. The outerlayer 314 can be formed from materials which enhance the structuralrigidity of the ember containment system 300. The inner layer 316 can beformed from materials which can withstand high temperatures—in someinstances greater than 800° F. or more. In some embodiments, the outerlayer 314 and/or the inner layer 316 can be formed from one or moremetals, such as steel or aluminum, one or more polymers, one or morecomposites, a combination of these materials, or other suitablematerials, including one or more materials described elsewhere herein.The intermediate layer 318 can be formed from materials which caninhibit transmission of heat from the inner layer 316 to the outer layer314. In some embodiments, the intermediate layer 318 can be formed frommaterials such as ceramics, fiberglass, a combination of thesematerials, or other suitable materials, including one or more materialsdescribed elsewhere herein. It is to be understood that the lid 330 canhave a similar construction to that of the walls 312.

The ember containment system 300 can retain recently burned embers toallow the embers to sufficiently cool before being discarded. This canbe particularly useful in situations—such as camping in “leave no trace”campgrounds, tailgating, and/or ice fishing—where a user must retain hotembers shortly after burning and therefore cannot dispose of the hotembers in on-site disposal facilities. In some embodiments, the embercontainment system 300 can have a compact form factor to facilitatestorage and transport on a user's person. The ember containment system300 can be sized to generally match the size of the pop-up fire pit 100.For example, a width of at least one wall 312 of the ember containmentsystem 300 can be the same as, or generally similar to, the width W_(E)of the pop-up fire pit 100. This can allow a user to tip the pop-up firepit 100 over into the ember containment system 300.

With reference next to FIGS. 16 and 17, another embodiment of an embercontainment system 500 is illustrated. The ember containment system 500can include similarities to ember containment system 300 and thereforeit is to be understood that any feature and/or structure described inconnection with system 300 can be applied to system 500. As shown, theember containment system 500 can include a body 510 having a pluralityof walls 512 defining a cavity 520. The ember containment system 500 caninclude a lid 530 rotatably coupled to the body 510. The lid 530 canmaintained in a closed position via a latch mechanism 540. The lid 530can include a handle 542 to facilitate transporting the system 500.

As shown, the ember containment system 500 can include an inner lining512 within the cavity 520. The inner lining 512 can be removable tofacilitate disposal of materials, such as ember, contained within thecavity 520. In some embodiments, the inner lining 512 can be formed froma metal mesh, such as stainless steel; however, it is to be understoodthat any other suitable material described herein can be used.

Examples of Methods of Assembling and Using a Fire Pit

With reference next to FIG. 14, an embodiment of a method 400 ofassembling and using one or more of the pop-up fire pit 100, 100 a, theheat shield 600, and the ember containment system 300, 500 isillustrated. At step 410, a frame of the pop-up fire pit 100, 100 a canbe expanded from an initial, collapsed configuration. At step 420, asupport structure can be coupled to the frame. In embodiments where thesupport structure includes a plurality of supports similar to supports142, each of the supports can be individually coupled to frame byaligning mounting regions with the frame. For example, the mountingregions can be aligned with, and slid down, upwardly extending rods ofthe frame. At step 430, a mesh can be coupled to the frame. Inembodiments where the mesh includes mounting regions similar to mesh160, the mesh can be coupled to frame by aligning mounting regions withthe frame. For example, the mounting regions of the mesh can be alignedwith, and slid down, upwardly extending rods of the frame. At step 440,a heat shield can be coupled to the frame. In embodiments where the heatshield includes mounting components similar to heat shield 600, the heatshield 600 can be coupled to frame by attaching mounting components 620to the frame. For example, the mounting components of the heat shieldcan be attached to, and slid along the rods of the frame to adjust theheight of the heat shield. At step 450, fuel can be placed atop the meshand burned. At step 460, the spent fuel or embers can be moved into theember containment system 300, 500. In some embodiments, this can beachieved by grabbing a lower end of the pop-up fire pit 100 and tiltingthe pop-up fire pit 100, 100 a to expel the embers from the mesh andinto the containment system. After the embers have been expelled fromthe pop-up fire pit 100, 100 a the pop-up fire pit 100 can bedisassembled by reversing steps 410, 420, 430, and 440. At step 470, thespent fuel or embers can be moved from the ember containment system 300,500. In embodiments having a removable inner lining, such as system 500,this step can be performed by removing the inner lining from the system.

Although this disclosure describes certain embodiments, it will beunderstood by those skilled in the art that many aspects of the methodsand devices shown and described in the present disclosure may bedifferently combined and/or modified to form still further embodimentsor acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations areintended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure.Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings or describedin the specification in a particular order, such operations need not beperformed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or thatall operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Otheroperations that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in theexample methods and processes. For example, one or more additionaloperations can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or betweenany of the described operations. Further, the operations may berearranged or reordered in other implementations. Those skilled in theart will appreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken inthe processes illustrated and/or disclosed may differ from those shownin the figures. Depending on the embodiment, certain of the stepsdescribed above may be removed, others may be added.

Other Variations

While certain materials have been described in connection with pop-upfire pit 100, it is to be understood that the components defining anypop-up fire pit may be formed of any of many different types ofmaterials or combinations. For example, the components may be formed of:rubbers (synthetic and/or natural) and/or other like materials; glasses(such as fiberglass) carbon-fiber, aramid-fiber, any combinationthereof, and/or other like materials; polymers such as thermoplastics(such as ABS, Fluoropolymers, Polyacetal, Polyamide; Polycarbonate,Polyethylene, Polysulfone, and/or the like), thermosets (such as Epoxy,Phenolic Resin, Polyimide, Polyurethane, Silicone, and/or the like), anycombination thereof, and/or other like materials; composites and/orother like materials; metals, such as zinc, magnesium, titanium, copper,iron, steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel,aluminum, any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; alloys,such as aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, magnesium alloy, copper alloy,any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; any other suitablematerial; and/or any combination thereof.

Furthermore, the components defining any pop-up fire pit 100 may bepurchased pre-manufactured or manufactured separately and then assembledtogether. However, any or all of the components may be manufacturedsimultaneously and integrally joined with one another. While certainmethods of manufacture have been described in connection with pop-upfire pit 100, it is to be understood that manufacture of thesecomponents separately or simultaneously may involve extrusion,pultrusion, vacuum forming, injection molding, blow molding, resintransfer molding, casting, forging, cold rolling, milling, drilling,reaming, turning, grinding, stamping, cutting, bending, welding,soldering, hardening, riveting, punching, plating, and/or the like. Ifany of the components are manufactured separately, they may then becoupled with one another in any manner, such as with adhesive, a weld, afastener (e.g. a bolt, a nut, a screw, a nail, a rivet, a pin, and/orthe like), wiring, any combination thereof, and/or the like for example,depending on, among other considerations, the particular materialforming the components. Other possible steps might include sandblasting, polishing, powder coating, zinc plating, anodizing, hardanodizing, and/or painting the components for example.

While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments havebeen presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit thescope of the disclosure. Indeed, the novel methods and systems describedherein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, variousomissions, substitutions and changes in the systems and methodsdescribed herein may be made without departing from the spirit of thedisclosure. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intendedto cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope ofthe disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure isdefined only by reference to the claims presented herein or as presentedin the future.

Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in conjunctionwith a particular aspect, embodiment, or example are to be understood tobe applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described inthis section or elsewhere in this specification unless incompatibletherewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification(including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or allof the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined inany combination, except combinations where at least some of suchfeatures and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The protection is notrestricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The protectionextends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the featuresdisclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims,abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination,of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Furthermore, certain features that are described in this disclosure inthe context of separate implementations can also be implemented incombination in a single implementation. Conversely, various featuresthat are described in the context of a single implementation can also beimplemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitablesubcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above asacting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimedcombination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and thecombination may be claimed as a subcombination or variation of asubcombination.

For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novelfeatures are described herein. Not necessarily all such advantages maybe achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, forexample, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure maybe embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or agroup of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving otheradvantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unlessspecifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within thecontext as used, is generally intended to convey that certainembodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certainfeatures, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is notgenerally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are inany way required for one or more embodiments or that one or moreembodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without userinput or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or steps areincluded or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,”unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with thecontext as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may beeither X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generallyintended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of atleast one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,”“about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent avalue, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, orcharacteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves adesired result, such as a desired function or result described inconnection with the category of such value, amount, or characteristic.

The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by thespecific disclosures of preferred embodiments in this section orelsewhere in this specification, and may be defined by claims aspresented in this section or elsewhere in this specification or aspresented in the future. The language of the claims is to be interpretedbroadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited tothe examples described in the present specification or during theprosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed asnon-exclusive.

1. (canceled)
 2. A portable fire pit configured to support a fire fuelsource and a fire, the portable fire pit comprising: a frame comprisinga plurality of rods; one or more support structures being configured tocouple to the frame, the one or more support structures having one ormore support apertures configured to receive at least one of theplurality of rods; and a mesh comprising: a base comprising a supportcontact portion having a support contact area and an exposed portionhaving an exposed area larger than the support contact area, the exposedportion comprising a porosity configured to inhibit particulates frompassing through the exposed portion and to permit airflow through theexposed portion, and one or more mesh apertures being configured toreceive at least one of the plurality of rods, wherein, when theportable fire pit is assembled, the mesh is configured to support a firefuel source at a location elevated above a ground surface such that anarea below the fire fuel source is unimpeded so as to permit airflow topass from below the mesh, through the exposed portion of the base of themesh, and to the fire fuel source.
 3. The portable fire pit of claim 2,wherein the frame is configured to transition between a collapsedconfiguration and an expanded configuration.
 4. The portable fire pit ofclaim 2, wherein the support contact area of the exposed portion extendsalong a perimeter of the mesh.
 5. The portable fire pit of claim 2,wherein the frame, the one or more support structures, and the mesh areconfigured to be stored and transported by a user as separate componentsand further configured to be assembled by a user into the portable firepit with the use of tools.
 6. The portable fire pit of claim 2, whereinthe mesh is configured to inhibit ash from passing through the exposedportion of the mesh.
 7. The portable fire pit of claim 2 furthercomprising a grill grate.
 8. The portable fire pit of claim 7, whereinthe grill grate comprises one or more mounts configured to couple to atleast one of the plurality of rods.
 9. The portable fire pit of claim 2further comprising a heat shield configured to resist transfer of heatthrough the heat shield.
 10. The portable fire pit of claim 9, whereinthe heat shield comprises a one or more mounting components configuredto engage at least a portion of the frame.
 11. A combination of theportable fire pit of claim 2 and a sleeve, wherein the portable fire pitis configured to be stored within the sleeve when the portable fire pitis in a collapsed configuration.
 12. A portable fire pit configured tosupport a fire fuel source and a fire, the portable fire pit comprising:a frame comprising a plurality of rods; a plurality of supportstructures configured to couple to the frame, one or more heatdissipation elements; and a mesh being configured to couple to theframe, the mesh comprising a base having a support contact portionhaving a support contact area and an exposed portion having an exposedarea larger than the support contact area, the exposed portioncomprising a porosity configured to inhibit particulates from passingthrough the exposed portion and to permit airflow through the exposedportion, wherein, when the portable fire pit is assembled, the mesh isconfigured to support a fire fuel source at a location elevated above aground surface such that an area below the fire fuel source is unimpededso as to permit airflow to pass from below the mesh, through the exposedportion of the base of the mesh, and to the fire fuel source.
 13. Theportable fire pit of claim 12, wherein the frame is configured totransition between a collapsed configuration and an expandedconfiguration.
 14. The portable fire pit of claim 12, wherein thesupport contact area of the exposed portion extends along a perimeter ofthe mesh.
 15. The portable fire pit of claim 12, wherein the frame, theplurality of support structures, and the mesh are configured to bestored and transported by a user as separate components and furtherconfigured to be assembled by a user into the portable fire pit with theuse of tools.
 16. The portable fire pit of claim 12, wherein the mesh isconfigured to inhibit ash from passing through the exposed portion ofthe mesh.
 17. The portable fire pit of claim 12 further comprising agrill grate.
 18. The portable fire pit of claim 17, wherein the grillgrate comprises one or more mounts configured to couple to at least oneof the plurality of rods.
 19. The portable fire pit of claim 12 furthercomprising a heat shield configured to resist transfer of heat throughthe heat shield.
 20. The portable fire pit of claim 19, wherein the heatshield comprises a one or more mounting components configured to engageat least a portion of the frame.
 21. A combination of the portable firepit of claim 12 and a sleeve, wherein the portable fire pit isconfigured to be stored within the sleeve when the portable fire pit isin a collapsed configuration.